BMW has issued a serious recall affecting nearly 200,000 vehicles in the United States. The warning is clear: owners should not park these cars inside garages or near buildings. The reason is a risk of fire, which can occur whether the vehicle is parked or in motion.
The problem comes from a part called the engine starter relay. This small but important electrical component can corrode over time. When corrosion happens, it may overheat and create a short circuit. That short circuit can lead to smoke or, in some cases, a fire. Because the risk is present even when the car is parked, officials are strongly advising owners to park outside and away from structures until repairs are made.
BMW discovered this risk after studying 10 vehicles that had caught fire. While no injuries or accidents were reported in those cases, the company and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are taking the problem very seriously. The warning is meant to prevent any potential damage to property or danger to people while repairs are pending.
Which Cars Are Involved in the Recall
The recall affects approximately 196,355 BMW vehicles made between 2019 and 2022. In addition, about 1,469 Toyota Supra models, which are manufactured by them, are also part of the recall.
Here is the full list of models included:
- BMW Z4 (2019–2022)
- BMW 330i (2019–2021)
- BMW X3 (2020–2022)
- BMW X4 (2020–2022)
- BMW 530i (2020–2022)
- BMW 430i coupe and convertible (2021–2022)
- BMW 230i (2022)
- Toyota Supra (2020–2022)
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The issue with the engine starter relay can affect cars both when parked and while driving. The relay may corrode, causing it to overheat and short circuit. This makes it a serious fire risk. Officials are emphasizing that owners should follow the guidance to park outside and avoid garages or places near buildings until the repair is completed.
BMW has handled previous recalls for similar fire risks, and this recent action is part of ongoing safety monitoring. Owners of these vehicles are encouraged to pay close attention to recall notifications to protect themselves, their families, and their property.
What Owners Should Do Next
BMW dealerships will replace the faulty engine starter relay free of charge. However, the recall will take place in phases because parts are not immediately available. Interim letters are scheduled to be mailed to owners starting November 14, 2025. These letters will explain the safety risk and advise owners to park outside.
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A second letter will be sent later, detailing when replacement parts are available and instructing owners on how to schedule the free repair at BMW dealerships. Until repairs are made, owners are strongly encouraged to follow these safety instructions carefully.
To check if a specific vehicle is included in the recall, owners can use their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website starting November 14, 2025. They can also call the company directly at 1-800-525-7417 for information about the recall.
BMW has faced similar fire-related recalls in the past. In 2018, the company was fined for delayed action after multiple vehicles caught fire. These repeated recalls highlight the importance of following safety warnings and checking for recall notices regularly.
Until the repairs are completed, owners are advised to take the warning seriously and park their vehicles in open areas outside. This precaution can help prevent possible fires and protect property while BMW works to replace the faulty parts.